Beauty Tips Guides

From inexpensive baubles to family heirlooms, jewelry reflects new trends and the cherished moments of a woman’s life. Careless treatment of any kind of jewelry, however, shortens its life, value and beauty. Careful cleaning of jewelry extends the wear and value of a collection.

Gemstones
Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry aficionados because of their beauty. They are also some of the most durable choices for jewelry. Still, care and maintenance are important factors to maintaining their good looks and value. Some gemstones such as sapphires, rubies and other single-crystal gems can be cleaned with a precise mixture of ammonia and water to remove any film that may be present and to restore shine to the stone. Gentle soap and warm water may also provide a safe mixture to clean specific gemstones. If a piece of gemstone jewelry needs extra cleaning, it may be feasible to employ the use of a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone.

When it comes to ultrasonic cleaners, be very selective. Not all gemstones can be safely cleaned using this method. Opaque gemstones such as lapis lazuli, turquoise or malachite should never be cleaned with ammonia or an ultrasonic cleaner. These stones can absorb chemicals or soap, resulting in discoloration, due to the porous makeup of these gems. Instead, these gemstones should be wiped with a moist cloth.

To avoid scratching a gemstone or another softer stone near it, keep all jewelry separate from one another. Also, remember that gemstones are often harder than the metal it has been set it. Gems can scratch the finish on gold, silver or platinum.

Diamonds
The hardest substance known to man, diamonds, need special care as they are some of the most often-worn jewelry. Lotions, styling products, and the grime accrued from daily wear can leave a diamond looking dull and lifeless. Avoid waiting too long in between cleanings to decrease the buildup of adverse materials.

Diamonds may be hard but they should not be cleaned with just any cleaner available. For diamonds in need of a really good cleaning, a professional ultrasonic cleaning is often necessary to remove encrusted dirt. However, the method should not be used on fragile settings without having been inspected by your jeweler, as ultrasonic cleaners may shake loose stones from their mounting.

A safe and gentle method for cleaning diamonds starts with soaking the piece in a formula of three parts water to one part ammonia and a tiny drop of mild liquid detergent such as Ivory. Use a soft brush to remove dirt. Do not use a stiff bristled brush as this will scratch the ring’s metal setting. Rinse the diamond thoroughly in warm water and follow up with a lint-free cloth to dry the piece.

Store diamonds in a fabric-lined jewelry case or in a box with separate compartments. Diamonds may also be wrapped individually in tissue paper and stored in a box. Do not store diamonds with other jewelry in a drawer or jewelry case. This can result in scratching of other jewelry. Perhaps most importantly, avoid leaving a diamond ring on the rim of a sink where it may slip down the drain.

Pearls
Pearls are more fragile than most other gemstones. They should be handled gently to keep them in the best condition. Most of today’s pearls are cultured pearls. That means they have been created by the initiation of humans who place a bead or other object into an oyster. The oyster then coats the bead with nacre, the patina that gives pearls their much-loved appearance. The thickness of nacre dictates the quality and durability of the pearl.

An excellent rule of thumb to maintain the beauty and value of your pearls is: your pearls should always be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off when dressing. To maintain the luster of a pearl, avoid applying hand creams or lotions while wearing a pearl. Also, put a pearl on after using hairspray, makeup or perfume. When cleaning a pearl, use mild soap mixed in warm water. Solutions such as ammonia or harsh detergents will damage a pearl, as can an ultrasonic cleaner.

Because pearls can scratch easily, store them separately from other pieces of jewelry. Pearls may also be kept in a soft bag made of chamois for safe storage. It’s a good idea to have pearl necklaces restrung from time to time to ensure the silk or nylon cord connecting them is in good shape.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

Since the dawn of civilization, gold has been used by humankind for both decorative and daily use. Gold art objects and jewelry have been discovered as far back as 3,000 B.C. to be used by the Ur civilization what is now Southern Iraq. Similarly, gold objects have also been discovered in Peru by archaeologists that date back to 1200 B.C. Gold’s nearly indestructible nature is virtually unaffected by the effects of elements such as oxygen and water. Although gold does wear over time, its durability to resist tarnishing, rusting or corroding has made it a symbol of permanence and therefore the first choice for many when purchasing jewelry.

If cared for correctly, gold will not only last a lifetime but may be handed down to future generations as heirloom pieces.

Cleaning Gold Jewelry
Gold jewelry should be cleaned with a gentle cleansing solution, such as dish soap mixed in warm water or a gold cleaning liquid. After cleaning, gold jewelry should be dried and polished with a chamois or lint-free cloth. Paper towels are not a good option for cleaning as they are too rough for the gold’s surface.

Furthermore, while gold is very durable, abrasives should not be used in cleaning as it may scratch gold jewelry. Harsh chemicals often found in household cleaners may also weaken or damage gold jewelry. Owners of gold jewelry should always wear cleaning gloves or take the jewelry off altogether before cleaning with these types of products. Above all, the worst enemy of an alloy like gold is chlorine. Always take gold jewelry off before entering a pool or Jacuzzi.

Repeated exposure to dust, moisture, makeup and other daily wear can cause gold to lose its luster. Regular gentle cleaning keeps gold glittering like new. It’s also a good idea to have gold jewelry cleaned by a professional jeweler periodically.

Maintaining Gold Jewelry
Gold wearers are often confused when their gold jewelry begins to discolor skin or clothing. Faulty manufacturing or under-karating is not the problem. The most common cause of discoloration is metallic abrasion which can be caused by cosmetics on the skin or clothing. Cosmetics, which often contain compounds harder than the jewelry, rub off very tiny particles of the gold piece. This dust, when in contact with skin or clothing, sticks to the surface and forms a black smudge. If this occurs, consider switching cosmetics. Otherwise, make sure to apply makeup before putting jewelry on and use soap and water to clean areas of the skin that come in contact with gold jewelry.

Through years of wear, gold jewelry should be regularly inspected for any damage or weakness that will inevitably occur. Particular attention should be paid to jewelry that is secured with a clasp or prong, as well as bracelets or necklaces with links. These and other pieces such as rings may eventually thin out and break. Any pieces that show damage should be taken to a local jeweler who can address any repair problems.

Proper storage of gold jewelry is also a must. Storage prevents damage of gold jewelry, preserving its luster for years to come. Gold jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box with separate compartments or wrapped in a soft, lint-free cloth when not being worn. Keeping pieces stored separately will prevent them from scratching one another or getting tangled.

Preserving Heirloom Gold Jewelry
Family pieces or antique jewelry must be handled with the utmost care. Use a soft chamois cloth to wipe jewelry clean, or have them cleaned by a reputable jeweler. Avoid storing heirloom pieces together in a container. And store genuine gold jewelry apart from costume jewelry. Jewelry of different karatages should also be stored separately to prevent scratching or damage.

With some consistent maintenance, the care of gold jewelry can reap benefits for many years. Favored gold jewelry pieces can be turned into family heirlooms and passed down to future generations. Your children’s children will thank you for the thoughtful care of your gold jewelry.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

Summer is a popular time for weddings. Sunny days, warm weather and a profusion of flowers provide the beautiful back drop for brides who take their vows in a church, at the beach, in a garden, or other unique setting. From the ambiance to the wedding wear to the reception, couples today wish to infuse their personalities into every detail of the day. As personalization of style also extends to the wedding jewelry, couples are giving more special thought to their wedding rings. Gone are the days of simply choosing a matching set for both the bride and groom. Instead, they are looking at everything from vintage-inspired to unique colored stones. The available ring styles include some of today’s outstanding trends which are destined to become tomorrow’s classics.

An important thing to remember is to find a style that appeals to both the man and woman and which will continue to bring joy for years to come. Perusing through magazines and jewelry stores allows a couple to define their style and narrow down their choices.

Several styles are turning the heads of couples this season:

Pave Settings
For a look that truly shimmers, pave settings make a band appear as if it’s paved in diamonds. Tiny, fully-cut diamonds are set extremely closely together, so to make the metal around them disappear. This style affords the wearers a look nothing short of luxurious without being over the top. Couples may find the look in everything from yellow gold to platinum.

Vintage Styles
For those who love a vintage look, celebrity brides are leading this trend. Several recently-engaged celebrity couples have sealed their promise to marry with vintage family heirlooms. Even if a beautiful ring from grandma’s jewelry box is not an option, vintage-inspired choices are popping up everywhere. The delicate look of vintage-inspired rings reminds us that what is old is new again during the wedding season. The most recognizable style is the Old European, but styles also come in Asscher cuts and others. For those who want to don this look, seek out styles with small scroll-like engraving; tiny, half-point diamonds, also called microset and dainty milgrain work; or raised beaded edges, as well as filigree.

Colorful Creations
For the bride who enjoys a hint of color, colored stone wedding rings are making a splash in canary yellow diamond, blue and pink sapphires, and rare light pink diamonds. Many brides choosing colored stones are also selecting a modern look, such as a tension setting. Meanwhile, colored stones are also making their appearance in four-prong classic or vintage filigreed settings. Colored stones are a great way to personalize wedding rings through a favorite color or birthstone. Brides might even opt for a setting that incorporates her and her intended’s birthstones.

Stacked Bands
Stacked bands are a huge wedding ring trend this season. Two or more bands stacked together make a dramatic and beautiful statement. One way to achieve this look is with several eternity bands worn piled one atop the other. These rings, with stones designed all around the band, garner sparkling attention when several are worn together. With this flexible and modern look, a bride may wear her engagement and wedding bands together one day, and the next day, wear the engagement ring on her right hand and wedding band on the left. Stacked bands are also a great alternative for couples who want to start a small collection. For instance, begin with one or two rings on the wedding day and add to it over the next several anniversaries.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

More than just ornamentation for the body, jewelry has long served as a palette for artistic expression. From Bulgari to Cartier to Harry Winston, the world’s famous jewelers have created pieces of bejeweled art that have captured the attention of collectors worldwide, as well as the imagination of those who appreciate fine jewelry.

Frederic Boucheron

Acquiring fame as an expert in precious stones, Frederic Boucheron opened his first jewelry salon at the Palais Royal in 1858. The masterful creator of beautiful jewelry, Boucheron also set up shop at the Place Vendome in 1893, which is still in successful operation today. Boucheron branches are also located in Moscow, Japan, London, and the Far East. Historical international expositions included exhibitions of Boucheron’s pieces, including the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial, the 1889 and 1990 Expositions Universelle, and the 1925 Exposition des Arts Decoratifs, all in Paris.

Sotirio Bulgari

Sotirio Bulgari of Greece began his firm in 1879 when he moved to Rome to open his first shop in Via Sistina. Bulgari’s distinctive style was carried on by his sons after his death in 1932. Bulgari jewelry-lovers admire the firm’s classical and Renaissance-inspired art, which features colors and patterns found in mosaics. Bulgari is also famous for transforming ancient coins into jewels. Bulgari boutiques grace Geneva, Hong Kong, London, Milan, New York, Paris, Singapore, and Tokyo. In 1998, a Bulgari diamond and colored diamond brooch auctioned at Christie’s for $1,186,400.

Louis-Francois Cartier

Renowned French jewelry and watch maker, Cartier may have gotten its start in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier, but it took it his grandsons Louis, Pierre and Jacques to build Cartier into the world famous empire it is today. Throughout its history, Cartier has undergone continued changes which have made it an international phenomenon. In 1983, the Cartier Museum was initiated; and in 1993, Cartier became a part of the Vendome Luxury Group.

Joseph Chaumet

Official jeweler to Napoleon:Chaumet was originally founded under another name. This jewelry firm captured favor for its grandiose creations and royal clientele including the Empress Josephine and later Empress Marie-Louise. Following the fall of Napoleon, the firm garnered continued acclaim under the direction of Jean-Baptiste Fossin and his son, Jules. Both were artists in their right who captured a spirit of Romanticism in their jeweled creations. In 1889, Joseph Chaumet, a Bordeaux jeweler took over the company and changed its name to Chaumet. The successful change in ownership thrust Chaumet onto the international scene, serving as jeweler to European royal houses and winning copious awards at international exhibitions.

Laurence Graff

Creating jewelry with some of the rarest gems available, Graff Diamonds was founded in London in 1960. The revered firm has handled some of the world’s most treasured gemstones, including The Idol’s Eye, The Emperor Maximillian, and The Begum Blue. The jewelry maker’s glamorous style is a result of its highly skilled in-house craftsmen. In 2002, a pair of Graff diamond and emerald ear-pendants sold at auction for $772,000. The House of Graff has locations in London, New York City, Monte Carlo, Dubai, and Moscow.

Tiffany & Co.

While Tiffany & Co. may have begun as a fancy goods store in the 1800s, by the 1950s Tiffany & Co. had captured its emphasis on the jewelry business. Its most famous pieces were created and sold by the founder’s son, Louis Comfort Tiffany. However, other esteemed jewelry designers, as well as renowned gemologist George Frederick Kunz were later instrumental in propelling Tiffany & Co. to international jewelry stardom. Today, Tiffany & Co. can be found in more than 100 locations worldwide.

Harry Winston

At only 24 years of age, Harry Winston opened his first jewelry store in New York City. A little more than a decade later, Winston established a company under his own name. Here, he handled such famous diamonds as the Jonker, the Taylor-Burton, the Star of Sierra Leone, and the Vargas. He was also responsible for donating The Hope, The Portuguese and, the Oppenheimer diamonds to the Smithsonian. Known as the “King of Diamonds,” Winston owned nearly one third of all the famous museum diamonds at one time or another. After his father’s death, Ronald Winston continued the Winston dynasty, expanding into additional markets in Tokyo and Beverly Hills.

While some of the world’s most famous jewelers have made their mark in history, many local jewelers also carry on this tradition of beauty - fashioning jewelry that delights and commemorates. Whether famous globally or just well-known to a local community, artists in jewels are part of a long legacy - creating today’s jewelry for tomorrow.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, styles and colors. These gorgeous gemstones are each unique in their own way. From antique diamonds to modern ones, there are a variety of gemstones to choose from when selecting a piece of jewelry. One type of diamond which many people still cherish to this day is the old cut diamond. Old cut diamonds are antique stones which were cut in a simple yet elegant manner.

When compared with the modern brilliant cuts of today, old cut diamonds shone with beauty regardless of their simplicity. However, some individuals who possess old cut diamonds wonder whether or not they should have the stones re-cut in order to resemble the modern brilliant cuts.

Why Some Individuals May Want Their Old Cuts Turned Into Modern Cuts

There are a few different reasons why diamond owners may want their old cut diamonds reshaped so that they become modern brilliant cuts. The first reason is to make their diamonds be more modern. This is an obvious answer to why one would want to alter their diamond in this way. They may feel as if their diamond will be better looking if it were in keeping with the times and not some piece of jewelry which was too in touch with the past.

Another reason why someone may wish to have their old cut diamonds crafted into modern brilliant cuts is in the case of an engagement ring. Those who may be giving their mother or grandmother’s engagement ring to their future bride may wish to do so for sentimental reasons yet feel that something a bit more modern might be a little more suitable for their loved one.

Lastly, one who wants to have their old cut diamonds turned into modern brilliant cut diamonds may be trying to rid the diamond of certain blemishes. An individual who finds an antique diamond that they like, despite the presence of a crack or line through the stone or poor cut, may feel that they can make the diamond more perfect by having it re-cut into a modern brilliant style. By doing so, they are getting rid of the blemish and making their gemstone more modern all at the same time.

Should This Process Be Undertaken?

When trying to answer the question of whether or not to re-cut an old cut diamond into a modern brilliant one, it is important to look at the underlying reason behind doing so. Since the diamond ultimately has its own favorable characteristics which make it a special stone and re-cutting the diamond may in fact make matters worse, the only reason one should really re-cut their stone is if there is a blemish present within the diamond itself. Any other reason for doing so may in fact make the diamond less attractive and less desirable in the end. Therefore, although it is a personal choice, it is often a wise decision to re-cut a stone only after careful consideration and knowing that the finished product may come out not as good as the original item.

James Greene is a Graduate Gemologist and Master Gemologist Appraiser. James has been in the jewelry and appraisal business for over 25 years and specializes in Insurance and estate appraisals. http://www.diamondmarketwatch.com

Luxury watches today are as functional as they are stylish and beautiful. They are valued as collectibles, status symbols, and art. Some luxury watch brands like Rolex are household names but some of the most luxurious are all but unknown to the average person. And there are dozens of fine luxury watchmakers, in Switzerland, France and elsewhere, all of whom make watches worth the investment.

A luxury watch is a work of art and a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Some luxury watches have 800 or more components and are still hand-assembled. At the low end, luxury watches sell for about $1,000. Many luxury watches have a price tag of 30 times that amount or more, a few sell for close to a million dollars.

Collecting Luxury Watches

A beginning collector drawn to luxury watches may be overwhelmed by the variety of choices from the simply elegant to the stunningly beautiful and multi-faceted functions available in fine timepieces made by dozens of reputable makers.

A sound bit of advice to anyone interested in adding a luxury watch to one’s collection is to study the watches and the companies before buying one on impulse. There are several factors to consider when purchasing a luxury watch, especially if it is being purchased, in part, as an investment.

The reputation of the brand is important. Rather than relying solely on a salesperson, talk to people who own luxury watches, study information available about the watchmakers and their watches, and find out what dealers and collectors are saying about watches on Internet forum sites.

Luxury Watches with Added Value

Many watch connoisseurs place high value on the number of complications a watch has. Complications are mechanical functions other than basic time telling like perpetual calendars, second time zone, or lunar phases. Generally speaking the more complications a watch has, the more valuable it is.

Other watch enthusiasts are interested in the beauty or style of the device. These watch buyers look for sleek elegant designs and ornamentation like diamonds or other gemstones.

Other details to consider when purchasing a luxury watch that can increase its value over time are its rareness, whether it is a limited or special edition, its warranty, and, in the case of previously owned watches, if its provenance can be traced.

Subtle Differences Between Luxury Watch Brands

With those basic tips in mind, here are a few things to know about some luxury watch brands. Rolex and Cartier are the two best-known brands and both make fine watches in a wide range of prices. The best-known brands are not always the most desired by collectors. In terms of status and overall quality, there are several luxury watches valuable to connoisseurs and aficionados.

Luxury Watches for Yachtsman, Contact Sports, and Other Special Interests

Two of the top Swiss-made watches are Patek Philippe and Bregeut. Both companies make exquisite watches with multiple complications and jewels. Patek Philippe holds the record in number of complications. In 1989, they created a pocket watch in honor of their 150th anniversary with 33 complications including a celestial chart with 2,800 stars. Other luxury watchmakers with solid reputations include Piaget and Bulgari of Italy.

Some watches are designed for special interest markets. Breitling is favored by pilots for their aeronautic designs. Glycine’s Airman 7 watches can display up to four time zones, perfect for travelers. Corum’s Admirals’ Cup Tide 44 measures the force of the tide and currents based on the moon’s phase making it perfect for yachtsmen. And for those who play contact sports, Jaeger’s Reverso watches are made so that the face can be flipped over.

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